For over a decade, I struggled with a massive $238,000 student loan debt accumulated from undergrad and a combined MA/Ph.D. program. The burden was overwhelming, especially on a teacher’s salary. The COVID-19 pandemic provided temporary relief with an interest-free payment pause, but the anxiety about future payments remained. Fortunately, recent changes by the US Department of Education led to the forgiveness of my debt, giving me a sense of freedom.
